Academics
Prepare for your career in the medical field at a nationally recognized institution. Samuel Merritt University offers high-quality health sciences programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels.
Create Healthier Communities, One Patient at a Time
SMU offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, physician assistant, and podiatric medicine.
Our curriculum is rooted in our school’s mission to educate students to become highly skilled and compassionate healthcare professionals. Students learn to transform the experience of care with kindness and respect, and to advance the health equity and well-being of diverse populations and communities.
We believe in a well-rounded health sciences education. No matter what program you’re interested in, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for hands-on learning and service work embedded into your curriculum.
Featured Events
Why choose Samuel Merritt University for ABSN Program
Choosing Samuel Merritt University means joining one of the most respected accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing in California. Designed for motivated, career-changing students, our accelerated nursing program blends intensive academics with real clinical experience, preparing graduates for fast entry into the nursing workforce. SMU’s supportive faculty, advanced simulation centers, and strong hospital partnerships help students build confidence from day one and achieve exceptional NCLEX pass rates.
Why Students Prefer SMU’s ABSN Program:
- Streamlined admission in accelerated BSN programs with clear guidance
- One of California’s most established 12-month ABSN pathways
- Early access to simulation labs and hands-on clinical training
- Strong clinical partnerships across Northern and Central California
- Small cohorts with personalized faculty mentorship
- Proven preparation for RN licensure and career advancement
94%
Graduation Rate
Our dedicated students have a higher-than-average completion rate of their degree programs.
4 Doctoral Programs
SMU offers four doctoral programs: occupational therapy, physical therapy, podiatric medicine, and nursing practice.
86%
SMU Students Receiving Financial Aid
We’re committed to making your healthcare education affordable.
College of Health Sciences
We’re training a new generation of highly skilled health sciences students as social workers, health administrators, physician assistants, occupational therapists, and physical therapists.
Come Join Us
College of Nursing
SMU excels in training future nurses and nurse practitioners. We offer several nursing degree options, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. We also offer online and accelerated program options.
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College of Podiatric Medicine
Our College of Podiatric Medicine prepares students to specialize in foot and ankle diseases, disorders, and injuries.
More About PodiatryPhoto Gallery
SMU has been at the forefront of health professions education for more than 100 years.
